The Ultimate 10 Days in Spain Itinerary

After countless trips to Spain and spending 3 months in Barcelona, I’m putting together the ultimate 10 days in Spain itinerary. From Barcelona through Andalusia, to Madrid, this Spain travel guide will give you a detailed itinerary to follow.

Spain is somewhere I have fallen in love with over and over again. Each region is unique in its culture which means you can have a wide range of experiences. Whether it be exploring the Catalonian city of Barcelona, full of impressive Gaudí architecture, or strolling the historic cities of Seville and Granada. You’ll find yourself in complete awe everywhere.

And while the architecture is incredible, I always find myself dreaming of the food scene. Most especially in Barcelona, where I love to hole up at my favorite local tapas bars and restaurants. I can’t get enough, and I think you’ll find yourself wanting to return to do more after your trip.

So I’ve put together the “best of” Spain — all of the places I have loved the most into a single, concise itinerary. I’ve done it in a way that accounts for booking your international flights (fly into one airport and out another, almost always the same price!). And an itinerary that is easy to follow and of course some flexibility to add more days and some recommended extra destinations.

I hope you enjoy this itinerary, and happy planning for your Spain travels!

Short on Time? Here’s the Ultimate 10 Day Spain Itinerary:

Stop 1: Barcelona — 3 nights

Dive into Barcelona, a vibrant seaside city brimming with laidback Catalan charm, with Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and Park Güell, medieval Gothic Quarter strolls, and tapas at El Xampanyet. Hit La Boqueria market and trendy El Born, with day trips to Girona or Montserrat nearby.

1. Cotton House Hotel ($$$), for best design luxury hotel (my personal favorite)
2. Hotel Casa Bonay ($$), for best design for dollar hotel
3. Praktik Rambla ($), for a favorite budget hotel

Stop 2: Seville — 2 nights

Next, make your way to Seville, a stunning Andalusian city blending Moorish charm and Southern Spanish flair. Marvel at the Royal Alcázar and Seville Cathedral, roam the Santa Cruz neighborhood’s winding lanes, and catch sunrise at Plaza de España. Tapas at El Rinconcillo and a flamenco show are musts, with a quick day trip to Cordoba nearby.

1. El Rey Moro Hotel Boutique ($$$), for the best overall boutique hotel
2. Hotel Casa Del Poeta ($$$), for the best centrally-located boutique hotel
3. Hotel Casa 1800 ($$), for the best luxury boutique hotel

Stop 3: Granada — 2 nights

Nestled near the Sierra Nevadas, Granada captivates with the awe-inspiring Alhambra and Generalife palaces. Wander the UNESCO-listed Albaicín’s charming streets, admire the Renaissance Granada Cathedral, and catch a stunning sunset at Mirador San Nicolás. Enjoy tapas at Bar Los Diamantes and day trips to the Sierra Nevadas or Córdoba.

1. Hotel Casa 1800 Granada ($$), for the best overall boutique hotel
2. Alhambra Palace Hotel ($$$), for a luxury stay near Alhambra
3. Parador de Granada ($$$), for a luxury stay near Alhambra
4. Seda Club, for the best design hotel

Stop 4: Madrid — 2 nights

Wrap up in Madrid, Spain’s grand capital with a formal yet artsy edge. Stroll the bustling Gran Via, explore masterpieces at the Prado Museum, and relax in Retiro Park by the Palacio de Cristal. Savor history at Sobrino de Botín and browse Mercado de San Miguel.

1. Santo Mauro, for the best overall luxury hotel
2. Ibis Budget Madrid Centro Lavapies, for the best budget-friendly hotel
3. The Madrid EDITION, for the best central hotel
4. Petit Palace Savoy Alfonso XII, for the best hotel for families

Things to Do

1. Explore all of the Gaudí Architecture in Barcelona: La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, or Casa Milà
2. Take a half-day tour to Monserrat from Barcelona
3. See the Royal Alcazar de Sevilla and Catedral de Sevilla
4. Join a Tapas and Flamenco Tour in Seville
5. Take a day trip to Cordoba from Seville
6. Visit the Alhambra and Generalife in Granada
7. Take a day trip to the Sierra Nevadas or Córdoba from Granada
8. Visit the Museo Nacional del Prado and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía in Madrid

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

For even more detailed recommendations for each stop, be sure to check out my guides to Barcelona, Seville, Granada, and where to stay in Madrid!

The 10-Day Spain Itinerary
Barcelona to Andalusia to Madrid

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What to Know Before Choosing Your Itinerary

How Much Time Is Needed to Visit Spain?

I usually say 2 weeks to see Spain will give you an easy-going itinerary, but truthfully, you can see Spain in 10 days. I wrote this itinerary for 10 days as the amount of time as I know some may add more time elsewhere, or stay longer in some of the places on this list. I have a few extension ideas at the bottom as well.

What is the Best Way to See Spain?

By train and plane. This is an entirely car-free itinerary to Spain! Spain is one of those countries in Europe where you can see major destinations without renting a car. Their train network (and bus) is well connected and you can use regional flights for longer distances.

What’s the Best Airport to Fly Into for Spain?

Barcelona Airport, officially Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), and Madrid Airport, officially Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), are the two best airports. I’ve structured this itinerary to allow for flying into one and out of the other. The airports are well-connected and have many direct flights between the US and other major European destinations.

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Editor’s Note: How I Structured this 10-Day Itinerary in Spain

When it comes to visiting Spain, chances are you’ll want to see more than just Barcelona and Madrid. I’ve included the region of Andalusia which is one of the most incredible areas for history and smaller towns. I wanted a Spain itinerary that gave you a range of regions with their unique cultures, alongside memorable sights and great food.

Having lived in Barcelona for 3 months, I’ve done extensive travel through all of these places. If one portion doesn’t speak to you, I’ve also recommended other regions to consider. Spain is large, so with 10 days you’ll get to see the must-sees plus have some slow days in the smaller towns.

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Spain Itinerary Overview

• Days 1-4: Barcelona (3 nts)
• Days 4-6: Seville (2 nts)
• Days 6-8: Granada Days (2 nts)
• Days 8-10: Madrid Days 8-10 (2 nts)

The Google Map for This Itinerary

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Stop 1: Barcelona & Nearby Day Trips

Welcome to Barcelona, the seaside city famed for its laidback Catalonian culture. Full of incredible restaurants, tapas bars, nightlife, and culture, for me, it’s a first stop in Spain. It’s a place to kick off your journey full of endless neighborhoods to explore but small enough to make some serious ground in a few days. It’s where I spent three months calling home, and have returned several times over to visit.

Recommended Time: 3 Nights

My recommendation is at least 3 nights to properly see Barcelona. There is a lot to do, several incredible day trips nearby, and a bustling city to unpack. Many people ask if they should spend more time in Barcelona versus Madrid, and my suggestion is always more time in Barcelona.

Getting into Barcelona From the Airport

When it comes to getting into the city from Barcelona, there are a few ways to go about it. I’ve personally always booked a private transfer or a taxi (it’s the fastest and not expensive).

• Private transfer (20-30 mins): I would pre-book a transfer like this one or this one, and the driver would wait for you which is lovely.
• Taxi on Arrival: Around €30-35 to the city center, hop in the taxi line when you leave the terminal.
• Train (30+ mins): 25 minutes to Passeig de Gràcia or Sants station, costs around €4.60. The train station is located in Terminal 2. If you’re arriving at Terminal 1, you’ll need to take a free shuttle bus to Terminal 2.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

I have a few favorite hotels in Barcelona after trying out several in the city over the years. I even have an entire where to stay in Barcelona guide if you want to dive in deeper. In short, the best two neighborhoods for Barcelona are somewhere between El Born and l’Eixample. The top hotels I recommend to my friends and family are Hotel Casa Bonay ($$), Praktik Rambla ($), and Cotton House Hotel ($$$). You want to try to be within walking distance to a few sights, and close to the metro to get around.

For newer hotel openings, check out the Kimpton Vividora, for the best new boutique hotel, and The One Barcelona, for the best design and eco-friendly hotel. My other favorite recent stay was at the Mandarin Oriental Barcelona.

My Favorite Things to Do in Barcelona

• Explore all of the Gaudí Architecture — Barcelona is the stomping grounds of the famous architect, Antoni Gaudí. You’ll know him from La Sagrada Familia, a must-visit when in Barcelona and requires reservations. You can stop by his other prominent works in the city, like a morning stroll through Park Güell or a tour through Casa Batlló or Casa Milà (La Pedrera). Just know that you will need to pre-book tickets for all of these top Gaudí sights.
• Stroll the Gothic Quarter — One of the prominent neighborhoods home to winding alleys steeped in history, with buildings dating back to medieval times and even Roman origins. The impressive Barcelona Cathedral and charming squares like Plaça del Reial and Plaça Sant Jaume can be found here. I’d spend a few hours just getting lost and popping into small boutiques and squares.
• Stop into the Museu Picasso — Located in the heart of the El Born district, the museum offers a deep dive into Picasso’s early years, with many pieces from his youth and formative period. I love to go in for an hour or so and see some of his famous series like Las Meninas.
• Eat Your Way Through La Boqueria Mercat — Officially known as Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, is one of Barcelona’s most famous and vibrant markets, located just off the bustling La Rambla. I love coming in for a morning stroll, grabbing a few different bites to eat like my favorite El Quim De La Boqueria.
• Catch an FC Barcelona Match — If you’re into soccer, try to snag tickets for an FC Barcelona Match at Camp Nou Stadium, it is SO fun!
• Spend Time in La Barceloneta — The beach quarter of Barcelona (and where we lived!) is a cute neighborhood with tapas restaurants and shops, brushing up against La Barceloneta Beach. The beach isn’t amazing, but it is the spot to get into the sea if you’d like.
• Shop Local in El Born — The hipster part of Barcelona, the Born is one of my favorite neighborhoods (adjacent to the Gothic Quarter) for local coffee shops and boutiques. There are several great streets like Carrer del Rec Comtal, Carrer de l’Argenteria, and Carrer de Montcada. It’s also adjacent to Parc de la Ciutadella as well, one of the green spaces in the city.

The Best Restaurants in Barcelona

• El Xampanyet — I would get on a plane to eat here — it’s all things tapas, one of the best in the city, and worth the wait. Get the house cava, pan con tomate, “lard pillows,” and the octopus.
• El Quim De La Boqueria — This might be my favorite breakfast in the city, head to it for their iconic breakfast of baby squids and two fried eggs. It is so good, just trust me!
• El Nacional — Come here for the most beautiful space consisting of multiple restaurants and bars, it’s an easy spot to walk in without a reservation. There is a Tapas Bar, Seafood Restaurant, Grill, and Vermouth Bar to choose from.
• Can Paixano (La Xampanyeria) — So good for traditional sandwiches washed down with house cava. Get the lomo, add cheese, get a bottle of house cava, and enjoy one of the best eats in town.
• 7 Portes — A solid choice for paella if you’re in the mood for it.
• Bar Mut — Another personal favorite for tapas, this is one I go to every time in Barcelona.

Read: The Best Restaurants in Barcelona for more tips!

The Best Coffee Shops in Barcelona

• Nomad Coffee
• Maison Coffee
• Cafès El Magnífico
• Right Side Coffee
• Cafe Cometa
• SlowMov
• SKYE Coffee Co.

Where to Take a Day Trip From Barcelona

There are several incredible day trips to be had from Barcelona, peep this 10 best Barcelona day trip list. Any of these can be done on your own with trains, or even consider hopping on a tour.

• Girona — Only a short 40-minute train ride, you’ll arrive in Girona to enjoy the winding, cobblestone streets of the Old Town. Explore the stunning Girona Cathedral with its impressive Romanesque architecture and panoramic views of the city. Wander through the Jewish Quarter (El Call), one of the best-preserved in Europe, with its narrow alleys and fascinating history. Don’t miss the Arab Baths, a hidden gem showcasing medieval Moorish architecture, and take a stroll along the Onyar River to admire the colorful houses lining its banks. Consider hopping on this Girona and Costa Brava guided day trip which takes you to Girona and the nearby area.
• Montserrat — The most popular day trip from Barcelona, you can access by train in 40 minutes, but I think this half-day tour includes the hike, entrance tickets, and cable car is a great deal. You’ll see the famous Montserrat Monastery, perched on the mountain, which houses the famous Black Madonna (La Moreneta) statue, and enjoy the landscapes.

Sample Itinerary for Barcelona (Read my full 4 Day Itinerary here)

• Day 1 — Get settled in Barcelona and check into your hotel. Start with a walk through the Gothic Quarter, see the Barcelona Cathedral and Plaça Reial. Go towards Plaça de Catalunya and then end with dinner at El Nacional.
• Day 2 — Sunrise morning in Park Güell and then a visit to La Sagrada Familia. Have lunch at El Xampyanet, stroll through El Born, see Museu Picasso, and get a coffee at Nomad. Spend the late afternoon in La Barceloneta — stroll the neighborhood, see the sea, and get tapas at Bar Jai-Ca or Can Paixano. End with dinner at 7 Portes or Disfrutar.
• Day 3 — Morning day trip to Girona, spend at least a half-day here. See the Girona Cathedral, walk the Jewish Quarter (El Call) and city walls, and stroll along the Onyar River. La Fabrica Girona is my favorite for food and coffee. Come back for the day in Barcelona, and tour Casa Batlló or Casa Milà (La Pedrera). End with dinner at Bar Mut.
• Day 4 — Morning at La Boqueria, stroll La Rambla along the way. Get breakfast at El Quim de la Boqueria and try local treats. Fly out of Barcelona Airport or train to the next stop.

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Stop 2: Seville

Seville is one of the most architecturally beautiful cities in Andalucía. It’s a gem, and with Moorish influences, has incredible sights to explore. It’s a wonderful kickoff to this region, where the cuisine will change quite a bit from Barcelona to here. With its compact size, it makes for a wonderful stop to explore charming lanes, cathedrals, and narrow alleyways in Southern Spain.

Recommended Time: 2 Nights

I call it the “smaller Barcelona” but with a twist! Seville (or Sevilla) is a wonderful city to explore on foot for two full days. You’ll have ample time to explore all of the best sights.

Getting into Seville From Barcelona

The two times I went to Seville from Barcelona, I chose to fly as it was quite cheap and fast. Many do take the train, which is another option depending on your preference and limited time.

• Fly (1.5-hour flight): Prices vary but generally range from €30 to €100, depending on when you book and which airline you choose. Flights depart from Barcelona El Prat Airport and arrive at Seville Airport (San Pablo Airport). It’s the quickest option in terms of travel time, but you need to account for airport security, check-in, and travel to/from airports.
• Train (5-6 hours): Tickets typically range from €40 to €120, depending on the class and how early you book. The AVE (Alta Velocidad Española) high-speed train is one of the fastest and most comfortable ways to get from Barcelona to Seville. Trains depart from Barcelona Sants Station and arrive at Sevilla Santa Justa Station.

Where to Stay in Seville

Staying in the heart of Seville is always the best for getting to explore with ease. Hotel Casa 1800 is my choice for the best luxury boutique hotel. I love the Hotel Casa Del Poeta, for the best centrally-located boutique hotel and the design at El Rey Moro Hotel Boutique. If you’re looking for a super luxury stay, Nobu Sevilla is the best choice. For my full list of recommendations, check out my guide to the best boutique hotels in Seville.

My Favorite Things to Do in Seville

• See the Royal Alcazar de Sevilla and Catedral de Sevilla — The Alcázar of Seville and the Seville Cathedral are two of the city’s most iconic and historic landmarks, and they are often visited together due to their proximity and shared cultural significance. You need tickets in advance, I recommend an early reservation or getting Skip-the-Line Access to BOTH Alcazar de Sevilla and the Catedral de Sevilla.
• Stroll the Santa Cruz Neighborhood — The Santa Cruz neighborhood in Seville is a charming, historic area filled with winding cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and traditional Andalusian architecture. Once the city’s Jewish quarter, there are landmarks like the Giralda Tower and Alcázar Royal Palace.
• Tour the Casa de Pilatos — Hands down my favorite place visited, the unique grand palace with azulejos with Renaissance and Moorish influence is absolutely stunning.
• Join a Tapas and Flamenco Tour — Seville is home to flamenco and what better way to experience a show than pairing it with tapas? This Tapas and Flamenco Tour does both and gives a great introduction to the city.
• Morning Stroll in Plaza de España — Wake up early and enjoy the empty Plaza de España, created for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929.
• Walk the Metropol Parasol — Designed by architect Jürgen Mayer, this contemporary landmark provides shade, houses an archaeological museum, and offers panoramic views of Seville from its elevated walkways.

Read: The Best Things to Do in Seville

The Best Restaurants in Seville

• Petit Comité Sevilla — Had several breakfasts here, such a local gem to enjoy.
• Bar Alfalfa — A total classic for laidback tavern fare and lots of tapas!
• El Rinconcillo — It’s not a trip to Seville without eating here once, this institution is one of the oldest tapas bars in the city.
• Tradevo Centro — If you need a break from tapas, this Mediterranean spot was a win for us.
• Torres y Garcia — Best choice for an upscale meal set in a stunning space in the city.
• Bar Santa Cruz “Las Columnas” — Another classic tapas bar, really known for their fried tapas and house draft beer.
• Parceria Cafe — Charming local spot, has a range of menu items and good coffee.

The Best Coffee Shops in Seville

• Virgen Coffee
• Placido y Grata Hotel Coffee Bar
• Muy Coffee
• Delatribu
• Syra Coffee (Multiple Locations)

Where to Take a Day Trip From Seville

You can explore a lot from Seville, but chances are you’ll want the majority of your time in the city. If you do tack on an extra day, the one place I’d recommend to visit is Cordoba. You can train in under an hour for about €15 to €40 and self-explore on foot. Or hop on a day trip like this one which includes Cordoba and Carmona.

Travel Tip: I do not recommend overnighting in Cordoba, I had done this on my trip and felt like I could have just done a day trip.

In Cordoba, see the Mezquita-Catedral, a breathtaking mosque-turned-cathedral, which is the city’s most iconic landmark. Wander through the Jewish Quarter (La Judería), a maze of narrow streets filled with whitewashed buildings, charming patios, and beautiful courtyards. And explore the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, a medieval palace with lush gardens and panoramic views of the city.

Sample Itinerary for Seville

• Day 1 — Arrive in Seville by early afternoon, and check into the hotel. Stroll through the Santa Cruz neighborhood and get a bite to eat at Bar Santa Cruz “Las Columnas.” Book this flamenco show and tapas tour for your first night.
• Day 2 — Start very early at the Royal Alcazar of Seville and Seville Cathedral, do both together. Grab breakfast at Petit Comité Sevilla before continuing to Casa de Pilatos to tour. Get lunch at El Rinconcillo for tapas. End the afternoon at the Metropol Parasol for sunset with incredible views. For dinner, book in at Torres y Garcia.
• Day 3 — Early morning start at Plaza de Espana and then get coffee at Delatribu before departing Seville.

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Stop 3: Granada

Granada has to be one of my favorite places in Spain. Tucked up close to the Sierra Nevadas, the center point of the city is its majestic Alhambra — a palace and fortress complex looming over the city. The sheer size and impressiveness of this sight alone are worth the journey to Granada. Along the way, discover local coffee shops, eateries, and more historic sights.

Recommended Time: 2 Nights

With two full days in Granada, you can see the major highlights and experience the culture of this vibrant city. This is why I recommend two nights in Granada if you include this as part of your Spain itinerary.

Getting into Granada From Seville

The best way is to either take the train from Seville or the bus, both are rather similar in times. Do be sure to book reservations in advance as it is a popular route.

• Train (2.5-3 hours): Typically between €20 to €50, the Renfe trains run regularly from Sevilla Santa Justa Station to Granada’s Central Station.
• Bus (3-3.5 hours): Typically between €10 to €20, buses depart from Plaza de Armas Station in Seville and arrive at Granada’s Bus Station.

Where to Stay in Granada

During my trip to Granada, I stayed in the stunning boutique hotel, Hotel Casa 1800 Granada. Set in a 16th-century historic home, this luxury boutique hotel is incredibly intimate and charming with unique rooms. Other hotels to consider would be the luxury hotels of Hotel Alhambra Palace or Parador de Granada. And I have my eye on the hip design hotel of Seda Club.

My Favorite Things to Do in Granada

• Visit the Alhambra and Generalife — Most visitors come to Granada to see the stunning Alhambra and Generalife palace and gardens — it is breathtaking, and I recommend a very early start. Be sure to book tickets well in advance, as they often sell out weeks or months ahead, even for off-peak times like late November. I’d recommend booking a guided tour if you can’t get a ticket or skip-the-line ticket on Viator. You can try booking a ticket directly through their portal as well.
• Tour Granada Cathedral — The Granada Cathedral is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture, located in the heart of the city. Its impressive façade, grand interior, and beautiful chapels make it a must-visit landmark in Granada. This guided tour is also a great option if you’re looking for a deeper dive into the Cathedral’s history.
• Stroll through the Albaicín — A lovely part of Granada, the Albaicín is a historical area and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lots of little streets to get lost in!
• Catch the Sunset at Mirador San Nicolás — The best sunset in Granada and everyone else seems to think so, is the Mirador San Nicolás. Get there early to get a spot and see the Alhambra come to life.

Read: 15 Incredible Things to Do in Granada, Spain

The Best Restaurants in Granada

• Bar Los Diamantes — Come here for all things fried seafood, this is such a lively meal and a fun place to eat.
• Bodegas Castañeda — An old institution for classic Andalusian dishes.
• Betula Nana — A more hip spot in town, a modern take on local dishes with creative flavors.
• Al Sur de Granada — This cute little wine store has natural wines and some small plates.
• Tocateja — This is such a vibe for Granada and all things tapas, definitely go out of the way for this one.
• FARALÁ RESTAURANTE — For upscale dining, I would book in at Faralá. It’s very much focused on regional Granada dishes with an elevated twist.

The Best Coffee Shops in Granada

• Sur Coffee Corner
• La Finca Coffee
• Noat Coffee
• Perspectives – Café & Honest Food
• SEDA Coffee
• Despiertoo Specialty Coffee

Where to Take a Day Trip From Granada

A few ideas if you have extra time in Granada:

• Sierra Nevadas — If you want time in nature, visit the nearby Sierra Nevadas, the mountain peaks that tower over the city. If you haven’t rented a car, you can always book a day trip with a tour group to get outside.
• Córdoba — If you didn’t get to Cordoba from Seville, you could still do it from Granada (about 1.5 hour train). For a guided tour, I’d consider this one which will take you there and back with ample time to explore.

Sample Itinerary for Granada

• Day 1 — Arrive by noon to get settled in Granada. Start with a picturesque walk through the Albaicín and work your way into town for coffee at La Finca Coffee. Pop into the Granada Cathedral, and grab a light bite to eat at Bar Tocateja. Catch the sunset at Mirador San Nicolás and end your night with dinner at Bodegas Castañeda.
• Day 2 — Have a very early start to walk up to the Alhambra Palace, tour that, and the Generalife next door. Walk back into the city center for lunch at Bar Los Diamantes, followed by coffee at Noat. In the afternoon, consider visiting the Monasterio de San Jerónimo, Granada, or El Bañuelo. End the night with dinner at FARALÁ RESTAURANTE.
• Day 3 — Early morning stroll through Albaicín and get breakfast/coffee at Sur Coffee Corner before departing Granada.

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Stop 4: Madrid

I’ll be the first to admit that Madrid is a slow burn — even after four trips to the big city, I’m not entirely sure where I place it with the rest of Spain. Its formalness, grandeur, and size feel closer to other cities like Paris and London, feeling further than ever from the laidback Barcelona. So when you get there, don’t be afraid to stretch your legs, reserve memorable dinners, and lean into its art scene.

Recommended Time: 2 Nights

End your trip in Madrid, the capital city of Spain. Two nights is plenty of time to see Madrid.

Getting into Madrid From Granada

• Train (3.5 hours): Typically between €30 to €80, high-speed trains (AVE or Alvia) run from Granada’s Central Station to Madrid’s Atocha Station, for a scenic ride.

Where to Stay in Madrid

Staying somewhere central to Madrid is vital for an easy visit. Over four trips, I’ve done several locations and have loved the uber-luxury Santo Mauro, A Luxury Collection Hotel in Salamanca. On another trip for less than 48 hours in the city, I stayed at the Ibis Budget Madrid Centro Lavapies. I also recommend The Madrid EDITION, for the best central hotel, and the Petit Palace Savoy Alfonso XII, for the best hotel for families.

Read: My Guide to Where to Stay in Madrid

My Favorite Things to Do in Madrid

• Stroll the Gran Via — The main thoroughway street of Madrid is home to many hotels, restaurants, and shopping. If you want to see the heart of the city, spend a few hours going down Gran Via during a day in Madrid.
• Spend Time in El Retiro Park and See Palacio de Cristal — Retiro Park is the grand park of Madrid, and it reminds a lot of Parisian parks. It is beautiful for an afternoon, lots of small lakes and you can’t miss the stunning Palacio de Cristal.
• Visit the Museo Nacional del Prado — The main art museum is the Prado Museum, and you have to get here while visiting. It is a gem with lots of wonderful collections, advance tickets are recommended here.
• Go to Mercado de San Miguel to Eat — For all things gastronomy, head to the food hall called Mercado de San Miguel.
• See the Plaza Mayor — First built during the reign of Philip III, this is the grand central square of Madrid. Lots of restaurants line it and worth a walk-through.
• Shop Local at Casa Gonzalez & Gonzalez — One of my favorite stores in the city for all things home and sustainability.
• Visit the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía — For more art, head to the Museo Reina Sofia for collections ranging from Pablo Picasso to Juan Gris.

The Best Restaurants in Madrid

• Sobrino de Botín — Step back in time to the oldest restaurant in Madrid, opened in 1725, famed for its roast suckling pig (so good), and even mentioned in a Hemingway novel.
• Casa Lucio — A rustic local spot since 1974 well known for its small plates, and specifically its egg dishes.
• Bodega de la Ardosa — Always a lively time here, love this tapas bar, and great for beer on draft.
• Chocolatería San Ginés — A must when in Madrid, come here for the freshly made churros and hot chocolate.
• Alimentacion Quiroga — One of the most charming old restaurants in town, love the charcuterie options here and the wine pairings.
• El 17 de Moreto — A more modern restaurant for all things lunch and brunch, easygoing, and has some healthy options too.
• Bosco de Lobos Madrid — For upscale Italian, I stumbled on this spot and loved the ambiance and food.

The Best Coffee Shops in Madrid

• Pum Pum Café
• Federal Café
• HanSo Café

Sample Itinerary for Madrid

• Day 1 — Arrive in Madrid midday, and check into the hotel. Walk through Plaza Mayor, and make your way to Mercado de San Miguel. Stop by Chocolatería San Ginés for churros and stroll the neighborhood. That night book in for dinner at Sobrino de Botín.
• Day 2 — Start with coffee at Federal Café, and get tickets to the Museo Nacional del Prado. Afterward, walk into the Retiro Park and see Palacio de Cristal. Grab lunch nearby at Alimentacion Quiroga. Shop at Casa Gonzalez & Gonzalez and walk the Gran Via. End the day with dinner at Casa Lucio.
• Day 3 — Morning walk through the city, grab breakfast at Pum Pum Cafe before departing.

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If You Have More Time

For More Beaches & Small Towns

If you’re looking to add time on the coast, I would do it while near Barcelona. Head up to Costa Brava, the jewel of Spain’s Mediterranean coastline. Spend a weekend in Begur, and explore all the best things to do in Costa Brava from small towns to hidden beaches.

For a Small City

Toledo, Spain is one place to consider visiting from Madrid. It’s an ancient city set on the hill, famed for its iconic landmarks like the Alcázar and the Cathedral. Toledo, often referred to as the “City of Three Cultures,” has a fascinating past through ancient synagogues, mosques, and churches all within a compact, charming old town.

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